To the editor:
Erika Lougheed of the Near North Board reminds me of Don Quixote. (Sorry for the cultural appropriation. I'm not of Spanish descent). She is imagining dragons.
What I'd like her to explain to me is how naming a school, a creek, a barracks or a street has caused or causes harm to the "Chippewa people, past and current students, faculty, and community members."
I can see how you could argue that the term "Raiders" or the use of an inappropriate mascot has caused/does cause harm. One of those items has already been changed. Change the other if an agreement can be reached.
Cultural appropriation has been going on since the first meeting of two cultures. Sometimes I use the words "savoir faire." Sometimes I make perogies. Sometimes I wear green and celebrate St. Patrick's Day.
What's next?
Nipissing University asked to change its name? Be careful you don't toss out the baby with the bath water.
Robert John Walpole
North Bay
